USFA to Issue Continuing Education Credits for On-Campus EMS Courses

Emmitsburg, MD.- Students who need continuing education (CE) credits to maintain Emergency Medical Services (EMS) certification now can earn CE credits for each National Fire Academy (NFA) EMS on-campus course they attend in Emmitsburg, Maryland. EMS CE credits are accredited by the Continuing Education Coordinating Board for Emergency Medical Services (CECBEMS). It is estimated that this new NFA effort will benefit up to 750 students each year.

Beginning January 1, 2010, students who attend any NFA resident EMS course receive 35 to 60 CE credits, in varying categories, for each course completion. The number of CEs will be granted based on the length and content of the courses. The CE credits will be printed on a Continuing Education certificate, so that students will have immediate documentation of their work. *Please note*: *CE credits cannot be granted for on-campus courses taken before January 1, 2010.*

“It is evident that continuing education better prepares our EMTs and paramedics to meet the needs of their community,” said National Fire Academy Superintendent Dr. Denis Onieal. “By receiving accreditation for continuing education in Emergency Medical Services courses, the United States Fire Administration reaffirms its commitment to provide professional development that increases the abilities of our nation’s fire and emergency medical services.”

In addition to the CECBEMS CE credits, the NFA will continue to issue International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET) continuing education units for its traditional classroom courses, as well as its online training programs, through NFA Online.

Questions about the CE program can be directed to Julie Davis <julie.davis@dhs.gov> at (301) 447-1084 or Michael Stern <michael.stern@dhs.gov> at (301) 447-1253.